As we pack away our winter coats and gloves and rollout the capris and dresses, we should be getting our sunscreen ready to protect our skin from the hot sun. The sun is an excellent source of vitamin D, which helps us absorb calcium and makes our bones become stronger. However, too much exposure to the sun without proper protection can be harmful to our skin and cause wrinkles and skin cancer. Some studies even show that the risk of melanoma, a serious type of skin cancer, is doubled after an intense sunburn. That’s why it’s essential and very important to protect our skin!

Sunburns can be caused by UVA or UVB rays, types of sunlight that harm the skin. There are many ways to prevent our skin from too much sun exposure. Direct sunlight can be very dangerous, as it causes sunburns. Limiting time under direct sunlight to fifteen minutes or less can lower risk of damage. Choosing the right sunscreen is also very important. When you’re standing in front of rows of sunscreen at the store, look for one with an SPF, sun protection factor, of 30 or more. This will ensure protection against UVA and UVB rays. Whenever you’re on your way outside, grab a hat and sunglasses, and don’t forget to reapply sunscreen every two hours. The hours between 10 am and 4 pm are when the sun’s UV rays are the strongest and limiting sun exposure during those hours can help prevent skin damage.

As the weather gets warmer, you should take extra good care of your skin. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from the rays, and use sunscreen.

– Lamisa